City Council approves $3000 for Miyata Saturday School student trip to Guyana

The Seaside City Council convened on May 15, 2025, to discuss several community-focused initiatives, including a proclamation for the tenth anniversary celebration of the Pacitti Dog Park and a funding request to support local students' educational trip to Guyana.

The council unanimously approved a proclamation to co-sponsor the Pacitti Dog Park's tenth anniversary celebration, set for June 28, 2025. Mayor Portim recused himself from the vote due to his involvement with the park committee but facilitated the discussion, which saw no public comments before the motion was carried.

In a more detailed discussion, the council considered a $3,000 funding request from the Village Project, aimed at assisting students from the Miyata Saturday School in their trip to Guyana. Council member Alexis Garcia Ezo highlighted the importance of the initiative, emphasizing the educational benefits and cultural experiences the students would gain. Regina Mason, co-founder of the Village Project, elaborated on the program's focus on providing culturally affirming education to children of African ancestry. She explained that the trip would not only enhance the students' understanding of their heritage but also foster resilience and mental health awareness.

Mason noted that the program has shown significant positive outcomes, with research indicating that for every dollar invested in such educational initiatives, there is a potential saving of five dollars in future social costs. The students, referred to as "emenyatta warriors," will engage in hands-on learning experiences in Africa, which Mason believes will be transformative for their lives and futures.

The council's discussions reflect a commitment to enhancing community welfare through educational opportunities and cultural enrichment, aligning with broader goals of fostering resilience and understanding among the youth in Seaside. As the council moves forward, these initiatives are expected to have lasting impacts on the community's future.